Matthew Mulhall is our latest Helping Hands awards winner. He was nominated by his mum Lisa for his fantastic fundraising during the Epilepsy Action Walk 50K challenge this year.
Matthew, 21, from Buckinghamshire, has had tonic and absence seizures since he was three months old and currently has up to three seizures a day. Despite these challenges, he took part in the challenge during May’s National Epilepsy Week, walking 60 kilometres and raising £948 for Epilepsy Action. Alongside his fundraising and super stepping efforts, he also did voluntary and college work as well as going to football club during the awareness week.
Nominating her son, Lisa said: “Despite his many other commitments, daily seizures and other health issues he smashed it. He did so well – there were some tough days when he struggled but he really pushed through because he knew he was raising money to help others. He was extremely proud of himself by the end of the challenge, as are we of him. Matthew – you never let epilepsy beat you or control your life and your dad and I absolutely admire you and your drive. Carry on being you and being amazing!”
Matthew’s award certificate is now taking pride of place in the family’s home as a daily reminder of his fantastic achievements. Accepting the award, Matthew said: “It was great to receive the award and really boosted my confidence to know I have made a difference. I want to do another event in the future like the Walk 50K to continue to support Epilepsy Action and other people who are affected by epilepsy.”
Philip Lee, chief executive at Epilepsy Action said: “Matthew is a fantastic young man who did a brilliant job completing the challenge at the same time as navigating his own health issues and education commitments. Matthew was one of 300 people who took part in the Walk 50K challenge, collectively helping to raise £65,000 to support people with epilepsy. We are delighted to be able to recognise and thank people like him. We know that the past 12 months have been so difficult for people, in so many ways, and that’s what makes our heroes even more remarkable. It is an honour to share these stories of special people like Matthew who make the world better for those with epilepsy.”